An Auckland constable stabbed in the face this morning has been praised for his commitment to his work.

Todd Martin, who is responsible for the Mission Bay and St Heliers community constable offices, was having surgery at Auckland City Hospital this afternoon after being attacked with a long-bladed knife while responding to reports of a man being threatening and abusive.

Mission Bay police station volunteer Sam Gibson said Mr Martin is a "very good" officer who has worked in the area for several years.

"He really understands the job and has a good rapport with the local community."

Mr Gibson was shocked when another volunteer phoned him this morning with the news.

"It's something you don't expect to happen, but it's always a possibility."

Mr Martin is stationed at Newmarket and has been in the police for nine years.

The officer's police car was left splattered with blood.

He was stabbed while talking to a man on Hapimana Rd, which leads from Tamaki Drive to the MJ Savage Memorial Park overlooking the Hauraki Gulf about 10.20am.